The leaves are falling, there’s a chill in the air and Halloween is fast approaching so it’s time to think about Halloween costumes. I know there are those who started planning theirs in June (they’re the same people who start buying their Christmas presents then too), but for people who like to be, ahem, more spontaneous with their costumes, the 31st can devolve into a desperate trawl through emptied shelves in the €2 shop. Or pulling on a pair of leather gloves and calling it a serial killer costume – in my defence  I was desperate! To make the process a little easier, we’re sharing a selection of our more unusual vintage dresses to spark some ideas for unique costumes. So, no risk of turning up in the same pre-packaged outfit as someone else, and anyway, buying a ready-made costume always feels like cheating. The true spirit of Halloween is about make-and-do, so feast your eyes on these potential costumes* and check out our huge selection of vintage online and in-store.

 

Rosy cheeks and a pail for a perfect milk-maid costume. Pig-tails and a tray of pints and you’ll seem to have marched in straight from Oktoberfest.

 

80s Madonna? Glamorous Hocus Pocus style witch, wear with a pointed hat and stripy green tights.

Honestly, we have no idea where this item originated from but it is a very versatile costume. This year you’re part of an alien invasion, next, a frog. Check out these gloved sleeves! Very amphibian.

Hmmm, a sweet, romantic dress, how can we use thi… Corpse bride! Creepy doll! Victorian child! Terrifying!

 If you’re feeling inspired, have a look at our online vintage selection here:

*As is always the case, zombie versions of all these costume ideas are to be encouraged.